Myasthenia Gravis Specialist

Michigan Neurology Associates & PC

If you’re experiencing muscle weakness after exerting yourself that then seems to improve with rest, it’s possible that you may have myasthenia gravis, a chronic neuromuscular disorder. The board-certified neurologists at Michigan Neurology Associates & PC, with offices serving the Metro Detroit area in Clinton Township, St. Clair Shores, Utica, and Westland, Michigan, specialize in the diagnosis and management of neurological issues such as myasthenia gravis. Schedule an appointment online or by phone today to learn more.

Myasthenia Gravis Q & A

What is myasthenia gravis?

Myasthenia gravis is a chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disorder that develops due to a breakdown in communication between your nerve endings and your muscles. The autoimmune disorder causes your body to develop antibodies that block or destroy the neurotransmitters in your muscles.

Anyone can develop myasthenia gravis at any time, but it most commonly develops in women younger than 40 and men older than 60.

While there is no cure for myasthenia gravis, the team at Michigan Neurology Associates & PC can develop a treatment plan to help you manage your symptoms.

What are the symptoms of myasthenia gravis?

While myasthenia gravis can affect any muscle in your body, it most commonly affects the facial muscles, including the eyelids and throat, as well as your ability to make facial expressions. With myasthenia gravis, you may notice:

Droopy eyelid

Blurry vision

Altered speech

Difficulty swallowing

Reduced facial expressions

Memory loss or cognitive impairment

The degree of muscle function loss varies from person to person. But in severe cases, the condition can affect breathing, which is referred to as a myasthenic crisis and requires immediate medical attention.

How is myasthenia gravis diagnosed?

The neurologists at Michigan Neurology Associates & PC conduct comprehensive examinations to determine if your symptoms are due to myasthenia gravis. Your evaluation may include:

Review of your medical and family history

Discussion of your symptoms

Physical exam

Neurological exam

Blood work

Diagnostic imaging

Electrodiagnostic tests, such as an electromyography (EMG), may also be recommended to test your nerve function.

What treatments can I expect for my myasthenia gravis?

The specialists at Michigan Neurology Associates & PC may use a number of treatments to help you manage your myasthenia gravis. Your treatment may include medications such as corticosteroids and cholinesterase inhibitors or intravenous therapy like plasmapheresis or intravenous immunoglobulin

About 15% of people with myasthenia gravis also have a tumor in their thymus, which necessitates the removal of the thymus gland. About 50% of people with myasthenia gravis who undergo a thymectomy go into remission.

With treatment, you should experience an improvement in muscle function and control. You might also experience a remission of your condition such that you may be able to stop taking medication for the condition.